Homeschool/Independent Study

Our family has been learning at home and in the world for 6 years. My home educated sons are 15 and 11. I was unaware that the Santa Clara Unified District had an independent study program.

The programs associated with the public schools that I know about currently are offered through the Mountain View school district, Ocean Grove charter school, and CAVA. I believe there is also a program in southern San Jose, but I couldn't tell you who offers that program. You can also establish a private school in your home and inform the state that you have done so by filing the private school affidavit. You can find more information on the legalities of home education through one of the state organizations, HSC, CHN or (if you are Christian faith based) CHEA.

It sounds like your son is what some call "twice gifted". You may want to check out giftedhomeschoolers.org . There are great lists of park/support groups in the area listed both at homefires.com and A to Z Home's Cool Homeschooling. You may also wish to join the Yahoo group for area field trips, BAHFT.

About me: I'm a mom of 4. My grown son and daughter (now 31 and 27) attended traditional schools. My younger sons, ages 11 and 15 are secular relaxed eclectic learners. I'm wondering if we can truly call my youngest child home educated - between archery, a multitude of science classes, cooking, First Lego League, math enrichment, ice skating, drums, Java programming, etc., we're never home!

Hi C.,

Another option to consider for homeschooling is the California Virtual Academy or CAVA. It's basically a private online homeschool program. It's part of the California Chartered Schools program, so it's connected to the state in that respect, but it functions the way any other private school would. Better curriculum, better and varied academic choices for all levels, and they accommodate any and all ISP plans. you are assigned and will work with a credentialed teacher, and their are so many opportunities for connecting with other kids and families. There are anywhere from 2-5 outings/field trips happening each month. I am now homeschooling 2 of my 4 boys in 4th and 1st grade, and we love it! They are getting so much more than any public school can offer! Check it out for your self at www.k12.com , you can learn about the entire program, and see actual curriculum samples for each grade and subject. They go from Kindergarten all the way through High School, and they offer such wonderful content in their curriculum. It's not what the Public School Systems use at all. The Kindergarten program starts with the basics of math,and phonics, butt hey also introduce Art, Music, World History, and this year a foreign language choice. They also supply all the materials (to include a new HP computer and printer for each family)and it's FREE! It's a fantastic alternative to the Independent Study programs in the public schools today! So visit their site, explore and see for your self, learn about why they use the curriculum they do and the many benefits that come along with! See if it will work for you! I live in South San Jose, and live the the are with the number one public school district in the South Bay, and the CAVA program still blows them out of the water!

A little about me:
I am a happily married stay at home mama to 4 beautiful little boys ages 9,6, and twins that are 4. We are a Born Again Christian Family, and a very Happy Home schooling family. I love to sing,cook, camp, hike, and spend time time with friends and family!

Hello we are currently homeschooling now, we just began this September. My son is 6 yrs old and just finished Kind. I am connected with one homeschool group called the Memorial Park H.S. group, they are based out of Cupertino. I am also currently looking for insight on various home schooling methods. I can pass on info to you in the future if you like. We have two other family friends that homeschool as well and our methods are very different but we all seem to have found the right fit for us. Let me know if you would like to connect via e-mail!

Hi C., Good luck with your mission to find the best educational tools for your son. I know you will make the best opportunities for his education. I did want to let you know about tutor.com if you do not already know about it. It offers 24/7 on demand online tutoring in many subjects for 4th through 12th for students who need extra help, or students who are studying ahead! This service allows gifted, advanced students to learn with a qualified tutor subjects they would not normally be exposed to in traditional education until later. You can try this resource free! Many blessings to you and your family, V.
visit: www.tutor.com
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